Therapist Issues

Q: I feel very offended that I should have to go and see a psychiatrist or a psychologist. They are for people who have a mental illness. I have anxiety and panic which is not a mental illness and I am not some sort of weak person.

A: I always strongly recommend that people with an Anxiety Disorder see a Mental Health Professional, either a psychiatrist and/or a psychologist. Seeing a Mental Health Professional is not a sign of insanity. Anxiety Disorders are the most common Mental Health problem in the country, and many psychiatrists and psychologists are trained in this area. When we have a physical problem we prefer to see a someone who specializes in that particular area. So it is with Anxiety Disorders. Most of us need to see a Mental Health Professional. You are right you are not weak, nor is anyone who has an Anxiety Disorder. Nor for that matter are people who have a major mental illness.

Seeing a Professional who is trained in Anxiety Disorders can mean the difference between a full or incomplete recovery. I also think it is important that people with Anxiety Disorders understand mental illness per se. Our own biases and fear only helps to perpetuate the stigma and shame many people feel if they have a Mental Health problem and the fear, stigma and shame won't change until we as individuals change our perception about Mental Illness/Mental Disorders.

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